Escape to the Country: Why This Beloved TV Series Is Inspiring a New Generation to Discover the West Country
For more than 20 years, Escape to the Country has been helping viewers dream of a different way of life. Nowhere captures the imagination quite like the West Country.
By West Country Escapes
For more than 20 years, Escape to the Country has been helping viewers dream of a different way of life.
Whether it's a charming Somerset cottage, a Devon farmhouse with rolling countryside views, a Cornish coastal retreat or a Dorset village home full of character, the BBC's much-loved property series has inspired thousands of people to swap city life for greener pastures.
And nowhere captures the imagination quite like the West Country.
A Window Into West Country Living
One of the reasons Escape to the Country remains so popular is that it offers far more than a property search.
The programme gives viewers a genuine insight into what life is really like in some of Britain's most beautiful locations.
Across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset, the series showcases everything from picturesque villages and bustling market towns to dramatic coastlines and hidden countryside gems.
For anyone considering a holiday, second home or permanent move to the South West, it's a fantastic way to explore different areas from the comfort of your sofa.
Discovering Cornwall
Cornwall has featured prominently throughout the series, with buyers drawn to its stunning beaches, fishing villages and relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Episodes have showcased sought-after locations including:
- St Ives
- Fowey
- Padstow
- Looe
- Wadebridge
- Falmouth
- Polzeath
- Mawgan Porth
Viewers quickly discover that Cornwall offers much more than summer holidays. Many buyers are attracted by the slower pace of life, thriving local communities and opportunities for remote working.
Falling in Love with Devon
Devon is another favourite destination on the show.
From the sailing towns of Dartmouth and Salcombe to the rolling landscapes of Dartmoor and the surfing beaches of North Devon, the county offers incredible variety.
Many episodes highlight:
- Dartmouth
- Salcombe
- Totnes
- Tavistock
- Sidmouth
- Exeter
- Croyde
- Woolacombe
For families, retirees and lifestyle movers alike, Devon often delivers the perfect balance between coast, countryside and convenience.
Somerset's Growing Appeal
Somerset has become increasingly popular with buyers looking for character properties, excellent schools and vibrant communities.
The county combines beautiful countryside with thriving market towns and easy access to London, Bristol and the wider South West.
Popular locations featured on the programme include:
- Bruton
- Frome
- Wells
- Wedmore
- Castle Cary
- Taunton
- Cheddar
Viewers often discover that Somerset offers exceptional value compared to many parts of southern England while delivering an enviable quality of life.
Dorset's Timeless Charm
Dorset regularly captures hearts on Escape to the Country thanks to its stunning Jurassic Coast, charming villages and elegant market towns.
Featured locations often include:
- Lyme Regis
- Bridport
- Sherborne
- Swanage
- Weymouth
- Poole
- Sandbanks
The county appeals to everyone from young families to retirees seeking coastal living and countryside tranquillity.
More Than Just Property
One of the most valuable aspects of Escape to the Country is that it helps viewers understand what life beyond the front door might look like.
The programme regularly explores:
- Local schools
- Independent businesses
- Food and drink producers
- Community events
- Outdoor activities
- Historic attractions
- Employment opportunities
- Transport connections
For anyone considering a move, these insights can be just as important as the property itself.
Why the West Country Continues to Shine
The West Country consistently stands out because it offers something increasingly rare: space, community and a connection to nature.
Whether it's walking along Cornwall's dramatic coastline, sailing on the River Dart, exploring Somerset's market towns or enjoying Dorset's Jurassic Coast, the region provides an exceptional quality of life.
It's no surprise that so many buyers who appear on Escape to the Country arrive looking for a house and leave having fallen in love with an entirely new way of living.
Thinking About Your Own Escape?
If Escape to the Country has inspired you to consider a holiday home, second home or permanent move to the West Country, you're not alone.
Every year, thousands of people discover the unique charm of Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset.
At West Country Escapes, we're here to help you explore the very best the region has to offer — from stunning holiday rentals and properties for sale to local guides, schools, lifestyle features and insider tips on living in the South West.
After all, sometimes the dream really can become reality.